Vaping Linked to Genetic Changes Tied to Cancer and Chronic Diseases, Study Warns
Summary
A study published in Frontiers in Oncology has found that regular e-cigarette users exhibit altered activity in over 3,000 genes, many of which are associated with cancer, heart disease, and lung conditions. The researchers compared gene activity in 83 participants, including vapers, smokers, and non-users, and discovered that vapers had altered gene expression in 3,124 genes compared to non-users. The study indicates that the specific e-cigarette flavors and device types used play a significant role in driving these genetic changes, with fruit flavors and advanced refillable devices causing the greatest disruption. While experts emphasize that the study is small and does not prove vaping causes disease, they warn that heating e-liquids produces chemicals that may affect gene expression and impair the body's ability to repair damage. The findings come as regulators face mounting pressure to address youth vaping and flavored products, with the UK government already moving to ban disposable vapes.
(Source:Headtopics)